To explore barriers and facilitators influencing the implementation of NCCN harmonized survivorship guidelines in Nigeria, specifically focusing on the perceptions of patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers.
Key Findings:
Barriers to implementation include human resource shortages, financial constraints, and limited awareness of guidelines among healthcare workers, which significantly hinder effective care.
Facilitators identified include strong communication practices and existing infrastructure that can be leveraged for better implementation.
Social and religious influences can support or hinder implementation among patients and caregivers, highlighting the need for culturally sensitive approaches.
Financial-related constraints are the most prominent barrier faced by patients and caregivers, necessitating targeted interventions.
Interpretation:
The study highlights the need for context-specific guidelines that address financial hardships, leverage caregiver roles, and consider social and religious influences on patient experiences to enhance implementation.
Limitations:
The study's qualitative nature may limit generalizability to other contexts, as findings may not reflect broader experiences.
Sample size of 22 informants may not capture the full range of experiences and perceptions, potentially overlooking minority viewpoints.
Conclusion:
Context-specific guidelines are essential for effective implementation in Nigeria, focusing on financial issues, the role of caregivers, and the influence of social and religious factors.